Top 5 best secret bars in Edinburgh

Hello Wanderers! Wondering where to take your Tinder date? Or perhaps celebrating a special occasion? Or simply looking for a new quirky place to have a cocktail? Then stay on this page because we are about to explore the top 5 secret bars in Edinburgh.

1. The Cocktail Geeks

Location: The Arches, 27 East Market Street.

The Cocktail Geeks is an independent small bar with a very fun and unique concept. It operates as a themed bar, and the theme changes every four months. During my last visit to Cocktail Geeks, the theme was ‘Lord of the Rings,’ inspiring all the drinks and decorations. This ever-changing theme ensures a fun, fresh, and different experience every four months.

Highlights: The bar boasts a fabulous selection of cocktails. However, for those seeking an extra adventure, there’s a special selection that can be unlocked by answering a riddle. Answer correctly, and you gain access to a unique menu.

Rating: 10/10

2. Hoot The Redeemer

Location: 7 Hanover st

For a 50s and mystery vibe, don’t miss out on Hoot The Redeemer. This bar offers guests a taste of a 1950s vintage funfair, complete with a tarot lady, claw crane machine, and ice cream. Having visited many bars in my life, this one truly stood out to me (and not just because I happened to be on a date there, duh). If you’re into the circus, funfair atmosphere, and a dash of the 50s, don’t delay your visit.

Highlights: Cocktails, cocktails, cocktails. Hoot The Redeemer boasts tarot-inspired cocktails, and I can’t wait to try them all.

Rating: 9/10

3.The Cauldron Edinburgh

Location: 57a Frederick Street

The next stop on our quirky bar tour is inspired by the wizarding world and Harry Potter. The Cauldron invites guests to immerse themselves in the aura of magic and witchcraft. You can book an experience that includes participating in a potion class (complete with a wand) to craft your own fancy cocktails. Alternatively, you can simply book a table and enjoy drinks from the normal menu.

Highlights: This offers a cool and unique experience, allowing you to create your own drink using magical ingredients. Let’s make some potions!

Rating: 7/10

4. Panda & Sons

Location: 79 Queen St

Panda & Sons, sharing the same owner as Hoot The Redeemer, is often dubbed as one of the best secret bars of Edinburgh. But why secret? When you arrive at the address, the bar isn’t immediately visible. Instead, you’ll come across an old barbershop with a hidden entrance leading to Panda & Sons. It’s quirky, cozy, and undeniably one of the most popular cocktail bars in Edinburgh.

Highlights: Super-friendly and attentive staff, an exceptional list of cocktails.

Rating: 9/10

5. Nightcup

Location: 3 York Pl

Fancy something quieter, more intimate, and cozy? Head to Nightcup, a secret bar in Edinburgh that is perfect for a first date. Nightcup offers a relaxing ambiance and beautifully crafted cocktails. Here, they see the cocktail-making process as liquid art that needs to be cherished and respected. If you’re a cocktail lover, this is definitely your kind of place.

Highlights: An extensive list of cocktails and a cozy ambiance.

Rating: 8/10

To Conclude (Secret Bars in Edinburgh)

I hope this list has piqued your excitement as much as I yearn for a Negroni in a speakeasy bar while writing this post. Let me know which place sounds the most fun, and enjoy the quirky side of Edinburgh. Remember to keep a secret as those are secret bars in Edinburgh, Tssss.

Prefer tea to cocktails? Why not check out my post on my experience of afternoon tea at Dome.